NEEDS: Butler's comments following his Super Bowl benching point to exit for him and opening at cornerback. New England likes Burkhead and got big production in 2017 from Lewis. Both are just 27 years old, but Patriots likely won't stand pat after disappointing season by 2017 free agency pickup Mike Gillislee. Linebacking core needs some help with Harrison unlikely to be re-signed at age 39 and starter Dont'a Hightower coming off shoulder surgery. Getting another player to pair with Trey Flowers at defensive end will be another priority.

AVAILABLE SALARY CAP SPACE (approximately): $14.7 million

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